Engel and Cannon Enter Strategic Partnership to Advance In-Mold PUR Coating Technology

Injection molding machine manufacturer Engel has decades of experience in polyurethane (PUR) coating technology, which it markets under the brand clearmelt to add value to molded parts by imparting scratch resistance, self-healing properties and aesthetics. In the clearmelt process, components are PUR coated directly inside the injection molding machine. To further develop this technology for the automotive and other industries, Engel has announced a strategic partnership with Cannon Group, a specialist in mixing and metering technology for resin transfer molding.

Through this collaboration, the two family-owned companies plan to further develop the innovative PUR infusion technology, in-mold PUR coating technology, paving the way for high-quality, efficient industrial applications. Engel said in the announcement that the Clearmelt technology, which leverages Cannon’s more than two decades of expertise in this field, has been further developed and optimized to coat thermoplastic parts with a durable PUR surface.

To demonstrate the technical and practical benefits of this partnership, Engel has commissioned what it claims is the world’s largest injection molding cell and clearmelt system to be installed at its technical center in St. Valentin, Austria. Customers are invited to conduct practical tests using various PUR color variants.

Engel says the Engel duo 5500 combi M combined with Cannon’s metering and mixing technology ensures maximum process stability and flexibility. Cannon’s PUR system is integrated into Engel’s CC300 machine control system to ensure ease of use and maximum process automation. This not only speeds up production cycles, but also improves the overall quality of the end product.

Engel adds that the global reach of both companies ensures full support in all major markets for integrating the technology into existing production processes.